Miami Ohio University Athletics
Miami Great Wayne Gibson Passes Away
12/29/2018 6:25:00 PM | Football
OXFORD, Ohio – The Miami University athletic department is sad to announce that H. Wayne "Gibby" Gibson passed away on December 27, 2018 at the Woodland Country Manor, in Somerville, Ohio. He was born to Dallas and Mollye Hodge Gibson on May 23, 1922 in Gallipolis, Ohio. He was one of nine siblings.Active in the United States Navy during World War II, he attended Miami University and earned his degree in History in 1948. He also played football for the red and white and later earned his Master's Degree in Physical Education from Miami.
Gibson served seven years as an assistant football coach under John Pont and one under Bo Schembechler. He became assistant athletic director in 1964 and associate athletic director in 1977 under Director of Athletics Richard Shrider. He was inducted into the Miami Athletic Hall of Fame in 1981 and is also a member of the Gallia County and Butler County athletics Halls of Fame. In total, his career at Miami spanned 62 years. He remained a season ticket holder and active member of the Red & White Club until his passing.
"Gibby was a beloved member of not just Miami University, but also the City of Oxford," said Miami University President Greg Crawford. "His connection and commitment to Miami and this community for more than 60 years is remarkable."
"He was a man of great personal integrity and always put the needs of others and the team above his own," said Director of Athletics David Sayler. "He will be remembered for always being positive, having words of encouragement and offering a friendly handshake and a smile at any time. We will miss him."
In addition to his wife, Phyllis, Gibby is survived by three sons, W. Scott (Pamela) of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, R. Todd (Cynthia) of Milford, Ohio and Randall (Janice) of Brentwood, Tennessee. He is also survived by five grandchildren, W. Scott Jr. (Elizabeth), Ryan, Caitlyn, Elizabeth and Randall Jr. In addition, 23 nephews and nieces survive. He is preceded in death by grandson Peyton Ryan Gibson and each of his eight siblings: Jewel Vanco, Evan Gibson, Beulah Mills, Donald Gibson, Ronald Gibson, Lorene Riffle, Archie Gibson (Nancy), and Betty Smith. Seven nephews and nieces also preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 3, 2018 from 11 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 1 p.m. at Oxford United Methodist Church, 14 Poplar St., Oxford, Ohio 45056. Interment to follow at Oxford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association or a charity of their choice.
